Fort Wayne Autism Center is Hosting an Open House and ‘Sensitive Santa’

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Fort Wayne Autism Center has opened a third location on the South West side, and is happy to be hosting a holiday open house for children with autism and their families and friends. Santa will be visiting from the North Pole for this event.

“It can be difficult for families to participate in traditional holiday activities, such as a visit to Santa, because often the crowds, the lights, and waiting in line in an unfamiliar place can be aversive" -Clinical Director, Laura Britton, MA BCBA

Fort Wayne, Indiana (PRWEB)November 21, 2016

Fort Wayne Autism Center is excited to host a holiday open house and free visit with Santa, tailored to the needs of children with developmental delays. Santa and Mrs. Claus will visit on Sunday, December 4th, from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM. In addition to a visit and photo with Santa, there will be sensory areas, a quiet room and therapists on hand to accommodate the various needs of all individuals.

This free event is intended to involve the whole family, so siblings and parents are welcome to attend. Families can sign up for time slots to meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, or stay for the entire event and enjoy refreshments, a holiday craft, and sensory areas.

“This event is designed to support the specialized needs of all individuals,” said Fort Wayne Autism Center’s Clinical Director, Laura Britton, “It can be difficult for families to participate in traditional holiday activities, such as a visit to Santa, because often the crowds, the lights, and waiting in line in an unfamiliar place can be aversive! When Santa visits Fort Wayne Autism Center, he knows a quiet area and flexibility are important for families.”

Research from the CDC now estimates that 1 in 68 children now have an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Advocacy and changing state laws has resulted in a growing number of resources available for children with Autism.

Each year, the number of recognized cases of Autism has increased in Indiana, and the need for intensive ABA therapy services in our state has expanded accordingly. In response to that growing need, Fort Wayne Autism Center was founded in 2010, creating a facility dedicated to providing a supportive approach designed to aid families on their individualized journeys with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.